Doretta "Dottie" J. Urschel

Doretta "Dottie" Jean Urschel, born on May 7, 1934, in Bippus, to Earl D. and Edith Mae (Smith) Smith, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2025, at her son's home. She was a beloved daughter, wife, mother, and friend whose heartwarming spirit and unwavering kindness touched the lives of many.

Dottie began her professional journey began as a waitress at the Coach House before starting at Peabody Retirement Community, where she served as a third shift caregiver—a role that aligned perfectly with her nurturing disposition. Together with her husband, Arden J. Urschel, whom she married on May 13, 1962, Dottie co-owned North Manchester Trucking, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit. She later took the helm at North Manchester Equipment Company in North Manchester and dedicated many years to Blue Flame in North Manchester before retiring in April of 1999.

Dottie was a proud graduate of Bippus High School, class of 1952. Her commitment to her community was evident not only in her professional endeavors but also in her extraordinary acts of compassion. Dottie and Arden were known for their heartfelt visits to nursing homes, providing companionship to those without family. Their contributions to the Shriners Hospital burn unit further illustrated Dottie's deep-seated empathy. Through her actions, Dottie embodied the essence of caregiving, never knowing a stranger and selflessly caring for her friends as they aged.

A woman of many accomplishments, Dottie was active in various organizations, including the former Business and Professional Women, the Joyful Heart Club at the First Brethren Church, and the ESA Sorority. She served on the board of the Shepherd Center in North Manchester and was involved with the North Manchester Historical Society and the Garber-Simmons Adult Center in North Manchester. Most notably, Dottie was a cherished member of the First Brethren Church, where her faith was a guiding light throughout her life.

The loving memory of Dottie Urschel will be forever cherished by her children, Richard (Dianne) Fox, Urbana, Dan (Linda) Fox, Albion, and Sheri (Jack) Stell, Huntington; brother, Kenneth Leroy (Dorothy) Smith, Wabash; grandchildren, Michael J. (Ashley) Fox, Brandi (Troy) Dahlstrom, Cory (Tonya) Fox, Morgin (Kelley) Stell, and Braydin Stell; seven great-grandchildren; and nineteen great-great-grandchildren. Dottie was preceded in death by her parents; and husband, Arden Urschel.

Family and friends may call Sunday, April 13, 2025 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester. Funeral services will begin at the conclusion of calling with Pastor Kurt Stout and Pastor Ron Burns officiating. Burial will be held at Fairview Cemetery, Servia, Indiana.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Dottie Urschel, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Children’s, P.O. Box 947765, Atlanta, Georgia 30394 or the First Brethren Church, 407 North Sycamore Street, North Manchester, Indiana 46962 or Stillwater Hospice, 5910 Homestead Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46814.

The family of Dottie Urschel has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.